Here at Grazia, we've waded through a fair share of beauty products. Whether new, viral, or cult classic, you name it, we have likely reviewed it in an attempt to help you cut through the noise to spotlight the products and brands that are worthy of your attention. Medik8 is one such brand worth its salt. Routinely cited as a firm favourite among beauty editors, dermatologists and A-listers alike, there is good reason why Medik8 comes highly rated by those in the know. And, if you've long wondered what the best Medik8 products are, scroll on as we've got everything you need to know.
It’s not often that we fall upon a skincare brand that’s so bloomin' brilliant that we’d happily use every single product in the range forevermore. But that’s exactly what we’ve found in Medik8. Serious about skincare and backed by science, this beauty brand has garnered a loyal fanbase including Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who have both declared Medik8’s R-Retinoate Cream, £149, a go-to.

Serious about skin is one way to put it. Often described as a brand that offers medical-grade skincare, Medik8 has positioned itself as the next-level of dermatology brands. Isaacs explains, 'Medical-grade skincare offers advanced, science-backed solutions that go beyond surface-level results, often formulated with clinically proven actives at efficacious strengths. At Medik8, our dermatological-grade formulas are crafted using the highest quality ingredients, including several patented technologies exclusive to our brand. Trusted by skincare professionals and dermatologists worldwide, we focus on simplifying expert skincare without compromising on results. It’s this unique balance of innovation and accessibility that empowers our customers to achieve visibly healthier, more radiant skin.'
While serious and clinical-looking, Medik8's approach to skincare is actually rather straightforward. Skincare junkies praise its simple CSA philosophy: using vitamin C, to ensure optimal brightening, collagen-supporting and antioxidant benefits; sunscreen, formulated with advanced UV filters to ensure powerful all-encompassing protection against UV damage and premature ageing while remaining lightweight and non-greasy on the skin; and vitamin A, offered up with retinol and retinal formulas in expertly stabilised strengths, to suit all skin types and needs while ensuring maximum youth-boosting results.

'Skincare routines can be overcomplicated,' Isaacs states, 'which is why we invented the CSA Philosophy; the secret to glowing, youthful skin. It’s as easy as using vitamin C and sunscreen by day, and vitamin A by night - clinically proven to address 90% of anti-ageing skin needs. Our CSA regime has undergone an unprecedented long-term clinical trial, tracking both immediate and continuous changes in the complexion. Complexions are visibly smoother, brighter and healthier-looking, with the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles significantly reduced.'
While the brand goes big on its vitamin C, sunscreen and vitamin A offerings, it is not short of products that feature other hero ingredients and technologies like peptides, hyaluronic acid, AHAs and BHAs. New to Medik8? Let us help you discover the cult classics that we can guarantee will warrant repeat purchases…
Meet the experts
Daniel Isaacs, chief product officer and co-founder of Medik8
Dr Alexis Granite, dual board-certified consultant dermatologist and Grazia Beauty Panelmember
Best Medik8 Products 2025, At A Glance
Best eye cream: Medik8 Crystal Retinal® Ceramide Eye, £42
Best vitamin C serum for brightening: Medik8 C-Tetra®, £42
Best vitamin C cream: Medik8 Daily Radiance Vitamin C™, £60
Best retinol serum for improving texture: Medik8 Crystal Retinal®, £45
How we chose the best Medik8 products in 2025
As an established brand in the skincare world, Medik8 is not short of ground-breaking products. There are in fact ample options that can be filtered through to various skin concerns and hero ingredients. When selecting the best Medik8 products in our edit we considered high-performing buys that sit within the brand's CSA philosophy as well as the accompanying products that support it. We reached out to experts in the field to inform our choices and measured each product against its claims. We also tested many ourselves. For more information on how we choose, click here.
Shop: The Best Medik8 Products
Best Medik8 product for youthful looking skin

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Reveal younger-looking skin with just 1 tube of Crystal Retinal. Our iconic vitamin A night serum is clinically proven to visibly smooth stubborn wrinkles, brighten dark spots, decongest and firm your skin - without irritation.'**
What we know:** Bolstered by retinaldehyde (a new-gen vitamin A that acts 11x faster than standard retinol), along side moisture locking hyaluronic acid, antioxidant-rich vitamin E and comforting glycerin, this clinically-proven formula has long been loved for its transformative effects.
Dr Alexis Granite, dual board-certified consultant dermatologist and Grazia Beauty Panelmember, says: 'A great, gentle retinoid product that comes in multiple concentrations, allowing you to ladder up strength gradually. I like the lightweight texture and tolerability.'
Pros
- Comes in six different strengths
- Clinically proven formula
Cons
- Requires time to build up strengths
Size | 30ml |
Key ingredients | Retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and and glycerin |
Best Medik8 product for dry skin

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Medik8's original hyaluronic acid serum floods multiple layers of the skin with multi-weight hyaluronic acid to leave it visibly plumped and supple, while effortlessly softening the look of fine lines.'
What we know: Loaded with small, medium and large molecular weights of hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, this hydrator promises to improve the skin's moisture retention in just seven days.
Dr Alexis Granite, dual board-certified consultant dermatologist and Grazia Beauty Panelmember, says: 'A gentle, non-greasy serum to amp up hydration and easily fits into a day or night routine.'
Pros
- For long-lasting hydration
- Lightweight and oil-free
Cons
- Features less actives than others in the range
Size | 30ml |
Key ingredients | Hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5 |
Best Medik8 product for reducing blemishes

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Discover visible skin-smoothing and brightening results that won't leave your skin feeling dry or tight with Medik8’s global bestselling cleanser. Surface Radiance Cleanse features a unique exfoliating AHA/BHA complex for effective cleansing of all skin types, particularly those trying to visibly improve signs of ageing, dullness and uneven texture. A radiance-boosting gel cleanser with an uplifting citrus scent, that transforms into a light foam upon contact with water for a thorough and luxurious cleanse. Skin is left fully cleansed of oil, dirt and impurities. The perfect formula for the second cleanse step of a double cleanse routine.'
What we know: Cleansing should never be overlooked. As the foundation of everything that follows, it's a good idea to pay close attention to your cleanser of choice. Medik8's bestseller is loaded with both AHAs and BHAs to exfoliate on the skin surface and deeper into the pores. L-mandelic acid (AHA), L-lactic acid (AHA), and salicylic acid (BHA) get to work sloughing away clogged oil and skin cells, while glycerin traps moisture and mangosteen peel extract provides antioxidant protection.
Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'As the first step in my skincare routine, I take pride in cleansing, often looking to products that can create a real slow moment of self-care with all the necessary skin benefits. This cleanser does just that and is one of the best cleansers I've used. Its rich gel-to-light oil formula is indulgent and hard-working, and fairs well on my dry acne-prone complexion. Speaking of, the mix of actives, like salicylic acid and comforting glycerin, is a welcome treat that helps to tackle breakouts and decongest my skin while boosting overall hydration and radiance.'
Pros
- Comforting gel-to-foam texture
- All rounder formula helps to exfoliate, deliver radiance and protect
Cons
- May be too harsh for those who prefer simple cleansers
Size | 150ml |
Key ingredients | L-mandelic acid (AHA), L-lactic acid (AHA), salicylic acid (BHA), glycerin, and mangosteen peel extract |
Best Medik8 product for multitasking

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Our remarkable vitamin A that can be used both day and night for faster visible brightening, revitalising and smoothing results while remaining gentle.'
What we know: Loved by the likes of Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who have crowned this a staple in their routine, the Medik8 R-Retinoate® Day & Night works as a three-in-one multitasker. It contains encapsulated retinyl retinoate which is eight times more powerful than classic retinol, collagen production supporting 7% stabilised vitamin C, and moisture magnet hyaluronic acid, which work together to improve skin tone, texture and radiance.
****Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'As someone with temperamental reactive skin, I've continuously been told that less is more when it comes to my skincare, which is why you'll only find me using a streamlined routine with minimal products. With a stripped back line-up, I can easily pepper in a single hardworking treatment and observe it in silo while it works its magic. This is one such product. It has helped me to stay true to my simple routine by combining hero ingredients into one robust formula all while being effective and gentle. Plus I can use it day and night to really keep things in sync.'
Pros
- Can be used day and night
- Three-in-one formula
Cons
- Premium price
Size | 50ml |
Key ingredients | Retinyl retinoate, 7% stabilised vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E |
Best Medik8 product for sun damage repair

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: A new addition to Medik8's vitamin C range, this gel serum is clinically proven to visibly brighten skin, even tone, and smooth in seven days, while defending against damaging free radicals, pollution, and daily environmental that contribute to premature skin ageing. It also supports the skin barrier.
What we know: As one of the new-gen additions to the Medik8 range, this serum taps into the buzzy world of exosomes, which has been all the rage in the industry recently. Pivotal to cellular communication, this formula uses shielding phyto exosomes to transport proteins, lipids, and messenger molecules to skin cells, while helping to create an ideal delivery system for unstable ingredients such as vitamin C. Speaking of, the serum contains supercharged 20% stabilised vitamin C, plumping hyaluronic acid and barrier supporting N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG), to promote a radiant, luminous complexion.
****Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'If, like me, you have a bias to lightweight, non-greasy, gel-like textures, you will quickly fall for this. While it packs a punch as far as formula is concerned, it certainly feels comfortable and refreshing on the skin, so you can rest assured its 0% barrier disruption claim is true. While it works instantly to hydrate, smooth and prime, which creates an ideal base for make-up, I've benefited from its long-term effects too which have improved my uneven skin tone and texture.'
Pros
- Uses new-gen exosomes technology
- Lightweight, refreshing gel texture
Cons
- Skin tolerance will need to be built up for 20% stabilised vitamin C use
Size | 30ml |
Key ingredients | Phyto exosomes, 20% stabilised vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and N acetyl glucosamine (NAG) |
Best Medik8 product for sun protection

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Visibly energise and protect your skin each morning with Daily Radiance Vitamin C, Medik8's bestselling 7% vitamin C + SPF 30 day cream. Clinically proven to instantly brighten & hydrate the skin in just 1 use, this lightweight formula delivers powerful antioxidant protection alongside broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen. Shielding the skin against premature signs of ageing.'
What we know: Using low irritation yet effective 7% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate to deliver antioxidant protection, radiance and collagen production, this moisturiser with SPF goes big on using stable vitamin C as well as moisture-locking hyaluronic acid and protective vitamin E. It also includes a complex of premium chemical sun filters to effectively protect against UV rays sans white cast.
****Sameeha Shaikh, beauty writer, says: 'This two-in-one doubles up as a daily radiance-giving vitamin C moisturiser and sun protector thanks to added SPF30. Its texture is rich yet non-greasy and pillow soft, which lends my skin instant hydration and comfort. The added benefit of an inbuilt SPF means I can skip using a separate sunscreen, which really does help to shave off minutes in the morning. Plus, the glow and firmness it imparts sits ideally under make-up.'
Pros
- Two-in-one formula
- In built sunscreen
Cons
- Only SPF30
Size | 50ml |
Key ingredients | 7% tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E |
Best Medik8 product for radiant skin

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Clinically proven to deliver glowing skin in just two weeks, Medik8's innovative answer to traditionally stinging and drying acid toners is here - Press & Glow. Press & Glow gently removes dead surface skin cells to reveal a smoother skin texture with a noticeable everyday glow. Over time, it helps to create a visibly perfected skin surface which is better at absorbing active ingredients like vitamin C and A, and creates a smoother base for make-up.'
What we know: Balanced with polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gluconolactone which converts into gluconic acid to gently exfoliate, prickly pear extract to boost the rate of cell renewal, acai extract to quell inflammation, and aloe vera to reduce irritation, this toner helps to promote a smoother, glowing and more even skin surface.
Georgia Scott, beauty and fashion product writer, says: 'An exfoliating toner is a non-negotiable in my routine and I have nothing but good things to say about Medik8's Press & Glow. This formula is gentle enough to use everyday to remove dead skin cells and texture without irritating.'
Pros
- Gentle and transformative
- Clinically proven to deliver glowing skin in just two weeks
Cons
- Pay attention to over exfoliating which can impair the skin barrier
Size | 200ml |
Key ingredients | Polyhydroxy acid (PHA) gluconolactone, prickly pear extract, acai extract, and aloe vera |
Best Medik8 product for reducing dark spots
www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Supercharge your skin's radiance each morning with C-Tetra Luxe; clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and hyperpigmentation in just 4 weeks. It also works to boost visible radiance while supporting the skin barrier.'
What we know: Infused with with 14% stabilised vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), this serum gets to works on damage caused by the sun, pollution and other external stressors all while boosting collagen levels in the skin. Vitamin C aside, you’ll also find squalane and vitamin E, which work to boost moisture levels in the skin, maracuja oil that is packed with nutrients to nourish, and red ginseng, which helps to brighten, giving us that all-important glow. So, you really don’t need much else in the mornings to give your skin all the TLC it needs.
Lauren Cunningham, beauty journalist, says: 'After years as a beauty journalist, I’ve narrowed my skincare routine down to only a handful of items that actually work and Medik8’s C-Tetra Luxe is one of my non-negotiables. Packed with 14% stabilised vitamin C (tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate), it works to reduce the damage caused by the sun, pollution and other external stressors while naturally boosting collagen levels in the skin. This means it visibly reduces fine lines and wrinkles, boosts skin radiance and makes dark spots appear less obvious. Plus, I’ve noticed it really works wonders on minimising my acne scarring. The downside, however, is that it is pretty expensive, costing £59 for around 30ml – although that does last me around three to four months when using it every day. '
Pros
- Contains 14% stabilised vitamin C
- Infused with supporting ingredients like vitamin E to bolster vitamin C for optimum visible results
Cons
- High price point
Size | 30ml |
Key ingredients | 14% stabilised vitamin C, squalane, vitamin E, maracuja oil and red ginseng |
Best Medik8 product for the eye area
www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Wake up to a more youthful-looking eye area with fewer crow's feet, reduced puffiness and visibly brightened dark circles.' This eye cream promises fewer wrinkles in one use, clinical strength results without irritation, and a more brighter, smoother and awakened eye area.
What we know: It's made with retinal (a form of vitamin A and the gold-standard of skincare ingredients), which is a component clinically proven to improve cell turnover and smooth skin texture with consistent use. But to counteract the impact of the vitamin A - as ingredients go, it’s amongst the most potent and can initially cause skin to become sensitive - the Crystal Retinal Eye 6 is also packed with a hefty hit of ceramides – a type of fat that works to smooth, soothe and protect skin. That means it's a potent combination that targets dark circles and fine lines, whilst protecting the skin. This cream is so good it even made it into our best eye creams edit.
Rachael Martin, beauty editor, says: 'While I wouldn't say it was a miracle worker (my dark under-eyes are likely genetic, so won't ever truly budge), I would say that I've seen a decided improvement in the tone and texture of my delicate eye area with consistent daily use over just three weeks.' Read her full review here.
Pros
- Available in 3 different strengths
- Contains gold-standard ingredients
Cons
- Will need a patch test prior to use
Size | 15ml |
Key Active Ingredients | Retinaldehyde, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, chamomile |
Best Medik8 product for congested skin

www.medik8.com
What the brand says: 'Get ready to wow at your next party with noticeably brighter, smoother and decongested skin. Sleep Glycolic is an at-home AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) peel treatment that delivers fast results overnight, without the usual redness and irritation associated with peel formulas.'
What we know: This leave-on features 10% active glycolic acid to tackle dull, uneven and congested skin, as well as Korean clover extract to protect the skin barrier and limit irritation, while glycerin traps moisture to keep things hydrated.
Emma Stoddart, beauty journalist, says: 'Applied twice a week and left overnight, the Sleep Glycolic achieves the brighter, smoother skin of a professional facial from the comfort of your bed. The high concentration of glycolic acid is the key to removing dead skin cells for illuminated skin without drying it out.'
Pros
- Overnight treatment
- Includes anti-inflammatory ingredients
Cons
- Can tingle on application
Size | 30ml |
Key ingredients | 10% active glycolic acid, Korean clover extract and glycerin |
Why is Medik8 worth the splurge?
In a word, yes. Medik8 is often found within skincare clinics and dermatology offices thanks to its use of professional grade active ingredients and clinically proven results that are backed by independent studies. It also comes highly recommended by the experts and you can look to its Advisory Board for the proof which has the backing of medical and cosmetics doctor, Dr. Ewoma Ukeleghe, and cosmetics physician and clinic founder, Dr. Bibi Ghalaie.
What’s new from Medik8?
Medik8 is known for its stellar, industry standard-setting formulations. One of the newest includes the C-Tetra® Advanced, £69, which taps into the buzzy world of exosomes. Pivotal to cellular communication, this serum uses shielding phyto exosomes to transport proteins, lipids, and messenger molecules to skin cells, while helping to create an ideal delivery system for unstable ingredients such as vitamin C. Speaking of, the serum contains supercharged 20% stabilised vitamin C, plumping hyaluronic acid and barrier supporting N-acetyl glucosamine (NAG), to promote smooth, radiant, luminous skin.
Which celebrities use Medik8?
Medik8 is a favourite among the A-listers. In fact, Hailey Bieber and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley who have both declared Medik8’s R-Retinoate Cream, £149, a go-to.
Is Medik8 good for older skin?
Yes! Medik8 explains, 'with our skincare for fine lines and wrinkles, you can visibly reduce, repair, and prevent signs of premature ageing,' which is achieved through its high-performance products that include ingredients like retinal, peptides, and hyaluronic acid.
Is Medik8 better than retinol?
Medik8 uses retinal instead of retinol in its vitamin A products. There is a key distinction between both retinoids. The brand explains, 'Retinal (short for retinaldehyde) is also a retinoid and form of vitamin A. However, it’s further along the vitamin A pathway than retinol, and just one conversion step away from becoming retinoic acid – which means it acts faster on the skin than retinol and boasts other added benefits.'
Should 60 year olds use retinol?
Using retinol in your 60s is encouraged as the gold-standard ingredient has a wealth of benefits on mature skin, including a reduction in the appearance texture, wrinkles and fine lines, boosting collagen production, and promoting cell turnover.
What are the side effects of Medik8 retinal?
If you are new to the world of Medik8 retinal you may experience some mild irritation, redness or dryness, when using too much product or applying it too frequently. The best way to approach it, is by easing your way in and starting off with the 0.01% strength.
Sameeha Shaikh is Grazia's beauty writer, covering all categories to bring you insights on the latest trends, industry news and the products you need to know about, viral or not (most probably viral).